The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Ranchi, has raised a yellow alert for Jharkhand, stating that the 12 districts of the state will receive a lot of rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning in the coming days. The notice is on October 2 and 3, when the festive season of Dussehra takes place, which is a cause of concern due to the potential disturbance of festivities.
IMD officials claimed that rainfall activity is associated with an emerging cyclonic circulation over the north Andaman Sea, which is likely to become a low-pressure region in the Bay of Bengal by October 1. It is predicted that the system will shift northwest and cause widespread rainfall in the eastern region of India, such as Odisha and Jharkhand.
Probably the affected districts are Godda, Sahibganj, Pakur, Dumka, Deoghar, Jamtara, Giridih, Dhanbad, Bokaro, East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum and Saraikela-Kharsawan. Due to the period between 3rd and 5th October, heavy rainfall is expected, especially in Godda, Dumka, Pakur, Deoghar, Jamtara, and Giridih.
Gusty winds of up to 3040 kmph and lightning are also anticipated by the weather department. The advice given to the residents is that in cases of thunderstorms, it is crucial to take the necessary precautions, not to venture out, and not to stay in open spaces, trees, or water bodies when lightning strikes.
Authorities have also raised concerns about the danger of waterlogging, flash flooding and urban flooding in lowlands. Rivers are already higher because of the recent rains, and swelling and inundation are possibilities. There can also be issues with the power supply and transport services in case of heavy downpours.
This emergency is when the state is setting up the Durga Puja and Dussehra festivals. The government has called on the organizers of the events and the local populations to remain vigilant because in the areas where they are planning to conduct their events, the presence of heavy rain is also an issue, and so outdoor events are likely to be affected.
The farmers have also been warned that the rains can destroy the standing crops because of waterlogging and high winds. Whenever possible, the agriculture department has recommended some protective measures.
IMD has encouraged citizens to monitor regular weather forecasts using official sources. District administrations have been put on alert and instructed to implement preventative measures in order to reduce the exposure to life and property risks.
Jharkhand is preparing to face a wet season in the first week of October, when festivities are in full swing in the state, with rains predicted in several districts.
